Join the conversation as Steve Alexander, Head of Growth at Anagram, sits down with Colton Calendrella, co-founder and CEO of Barti, to dig into what it really takes to get more out of your Electronic Health Records system.

With so many practices relying on their EHR daily but tapping only a small fraction of its capabilities, Colton breaks down how teams can close that gap. From choosing an internal “EHR champion” to investing in ongoing training and taking advantage of support resources from your vendor, the discussion shows how small shifts can open the door to smoother workflows, less frustration, and a better patient experience.

Steve and Colton also explore how continuous learning fuels long-term efficiency, why carving out time for EHR mastery pays off, and how leaders can build confidence across their staff. Whether you’re upgrading your software or trying to get more from what you already have, this episode offers a practical roadmap for leveling up your EHR and your practice at the same time.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:37 Maximizing Your EHR: Where to Start

02:49 Investing Time in Learning EHR Capabilities

04:45 Practical Tips for EHR Mastery

06:45 Hiring and Training for EHR Efficiency

09:35 The Importance of Continuous Learning

11:49 The Toothbrush Test: Prioritizing EHR Tasks

14:23 Leveraging EHR Training Resources

19:22 The ROI of EHR Mastery

23:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Best Practices, host Steve Alexander talks with Adam Cherry, president and owner of Cherry Optical Lab, about how intelligent lens selection decisions can improve both patient satisfaction and optical performance. Together, they explore how materials, coatings, frame choice, and pricing strategies all play a role in creating better outcomes for patients and practices alike.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:31 Lens Selection Fundamentals 01:41 Choosing the Right Lens Materials 03:24 Balancing Aesthetics and Comfort 06:41 Matching Frames and Prescriptions 11:02 Anti-Reflective Coatings and Their Benefits 17:53 Managing Patient Expectations 21:59 Industry Challenges and Common Pitfalls 23:05 Designing an Effective Lens Menu 23:31 Vision Plans and Profitability 24:19 The Rise of Online Retail 27:26 Private Pay vs. Vision Plan Patients 27:52 Progressive Lenses and Pricing Strategy 32:29 The Evolution of Lens Technology 35:55 Retail Strategies for Optical Practices 43:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join the conversation as Steve Alexander, Head of Growth at Anagram, sits down with Bill Gerber, founder and visionary of OMG! Optical Marketing Group, to explore how practices can make technology work for them, not against them

With decades of experience helping eyecare professionals modernize their businesses, Bill shares how diagnostic, retail, and management technologies can streamline operations and enhance the patient experience. From adopting patient-facing tools to training your team and avoiding tech fatigue, the discussion breaks down what it really takes to integrate innovation effectively.

Bill and Steve also dive into the importance of strategic planning, consistency, and understanding your ideal patient when implementing new systems. Whether you’re evaluating your next software investment or refining how you use the tools you already have, this episode offers a grounded, practical roadmap to using technology as a driver of growth, efficiency, and patient satisfaction.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:27 Leveraging Technology in Eyecare Practices

00:57 Patient-Facing Technology and Its Challenges

02:18 Adopting and Implementing New Technologies

04:56 Choosing the Right Technology for Your Practice

06:42 Effective Implementation and Staff Training

09:52 Strategic Planning and Long-Term Success

13:10 Case Studies and Real-World Examples

15:49 The Importance of Strategic Planning

19:39 Marketing and Implementation Challenges

20:10 Frustrations and Marketing Strategies

20:44 The Medical Equipment Industrial Complex

21:58 Consistency in Patient Experience

23:47 Identifying Your Ideal Customer

25:58 Scheduling Dispenses for Better Sales

29:43 Retail Finesse and Design

31:44 Leveraging Technology for Customer Convenience

34:30 The Multi-Pair Eyewear Strategy

36:15 Conclusion and Contact Information

Join the conversation as Steve Alexander, Head of Growth at Anagram, sits down with Zach Weaver and Jill Kielas of Tom Davies to unpack the art and science of curating a successful optical. With more than three decades of combined experience in the optical industry, Zach and Jill share how practices can elevate both revenue and patient satisfaction by taking a data-driven approach to frame buying. They discuss how understanding demographics, balancing aesthetics with performance, and involving the whole team in decision-making can turn your frame board into a true business driver. From merchandising strategies and color trends to managing inventory and identifying niche opportunities, this episode is packed with practical advice for any OD or optician looking to optimize their optical assortment. Whether you’re refining an existing selection or bringing in a new collection for the first time, you’ll learn how to blend instinct with insight to make smarter, more profitable decisions.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:24 Jill’s Journey in the Optical Industry

01:00 Zach’s Experience and Role at Tom Davies

02:25 Best Practices for Bringing in a New Collection

06:25 Data-Driven Buying Decisions

11:27 Merchandising and Inventory Management

16:59 The Importance of Knowing Your Customer

21:07 Strategies for Effective Frame Board Management

29:45 The Pitfalls of Gut-Based Decisions

30:19 The Importance of Data in Sales

31:57 Team Buy-In and Decision Making

33:07 Engaging Buying Experiences

34:25 Local Events and Industry Trends

35:39 Fashion and Function in Eyewear

37:01 Understanding Demographics for Better Sales

38:32 Raising the Optical Ceiling

41:12 The Value of Multiple Pairs of Glasses

43:19 The Role of Opticians in Customer Satisfaction

52:23 Introducing Colorful Frames for Men

56:53 Effective Merchandising Strategies

59:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Best Practices for Building Wellness and Performance Into Your Practice

Join the conversation as Steve Alexander sits down with Greg Naes, founder of BlueTech, to explore how eye care practices can expand into the performance and wellness space. Drawing on his expertise in blue light research, Greg shares insights on the relationship between sleep, melatonin, and productivity and how scientifically backed blue light glasses can make a meaningful impact.

In this episode, you’ll learn actionable tips including, but not limited to, how to align intake forms with today’s wellness-focused patient needs, collaborate with labs and online retailers to update your product catalog, and educate patients on the health benefits of blue light protection. Greg also outlines practical ways to integrate wellness solutions that improve patient outcomes while opening new opportunities for practice growth. Whether you’re focused on expanding care or strengthening your business, this episode offers a clear path forward.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:22 The Importance of Sleep and Melatonin

03:35 Caffeine and Its Effects

06:02 The Role of Glasses in Sleep and Wellness

09:25 Eyecare Practices and Blue Light

18:31 Performance and Wellness in Eyecare

21:02 Best Practices for Eyecare Clinics

24:46 The Importance of Optical Labs

25:57 Educating Yourself and Your Patients

26:48 The Untapped Potential of Contact Lens Patients

29:26 The Role of Online Glasses and Convenience

29:35 Partnering with Online Companies

34:03 Optimizing Patient Care in Busy Practices

39:32 The Concept of Rescue Glasses

40:59 Practical Techniques for Eyecare Practices

44:20 Final Thoughts and Best Practices

Join the conversation as Steve Alexander, Head of Growth at Anagram, sits down with Dr. Brianna Rhue, optometrist and co-founder and CEO of Dr. Contact Lens, to explore the intersection of clinical care and entrepreneurship in optometry.

In this episode, Dr. Rhue shares her journey from practicing optometrist to business leader, offering a candid look at the challenges, risks, and rewards of running a private practice. She dives into the importance of defining core values, empowering your team, and making informed business decisions that align with patient care.

Listeners will also discover Dr. Rhue’s “Three Frogs” accountability method, a powerful approach to boosting productivity and maintaining balance between professional growth and personal well-being. Whether you’re expanding your practice or just starting to think like an entrepreneur, this episode offers actionable insights to help you lead with clarity, courage, and confidence.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:30 Dr. Brianna Rhue’s Journey into Optometry 02:37 Challenges and Successes in Private Practice 04:36 Entrepreneurial Mindset and Core Values 14:59 Balancing Clinical and Business Roles 16:08 Leveraging Teams and Reps for Growth 19:18 Making Informed Decisions and Managing Risk 22:19 The Art of Effective Communication 24:03 Asking the Right Questions 25:09 Training Staff to Make Informed Decisions 27:10 Empowering Your Team for Growth 28:40 The Role of Strategy in Business Success 35:06 The Purple Frog Method: A Unique Approach to Productivity 36:33 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 38:46 The Three Frogs Accountability Game 41:09 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Join the conversation as Steve Alexander sits down with Samantha Toth, founder and president of Innereactive, to discuss the vital role company culture plays in building a thriving eyecare practice. With years of experience in eyecare marketing, Samantha shares how culture is rooted in transparency, trust, and true employee engagement.

In this episode, you’ll learn practical strategies for fostering a positive workplace environment, from running purposeful meetings to hiring talent that aligns with your values. Additionally, Samantha explores how to address employee concerns, recognize contributions, and empower your team to deliver their best work. Whether you’re focused on improving staff morale, strengthening patient care, or creating long-term practice success, this episode offers actionable insights to help you refine and elevate your culture.

Episode Breakdown

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:21 Samantha's Journey in Eyecare

01:46 Falling in Love with Eyecare Marketing

02:55 Defining Company Culture

05:28 The Four Pillars of Great Company Culture 10:06 Evaluating and Improving Company Culture

15:48 Creating Buy-In and Collaboration

23:05 Exploring Team Dynamics and Recognition

24:16 Understanding Company Culture and Hiring Practices

25:46 Effective Interview Techniques and Core Values

27:08 Empowering Employees and Trust Building

30:33 Addressing Employee Performance and Special Treatment

32:42 The Importance of Meetings and One-on-Ones

41:00 Building Trust and Employee Relationships

44:02 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode, Steve Alexander sits down with Kayla Ashlee, Founder and CEO of Spexy, to explore best practices for ongoing training and development in the optical field. Kayla shares her journey and insights into how effective communication, structured training, and individual commitment can drastically improve practice efficiency and patient care. From utilizing online training platforms to role-playing scenarios for better patient interaction, Kayla provides actionable advice on enhancing team performance and achieving higher capture rates.

Join the conversation as Matt Rosner discusses the importance of clear vision and mission in eyecare practices, the necessity of innovation, and best practices for organizational development. Learn how to hire the right people, set clear expectations, and develop effective processes to achieve long-term success. Discover why taking a long-term view of your practice and involving your team in decision-making can help navigate growth and innovation in the optometric field.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:31 Matt Rosner's Journey into Optometry

02:02 The Need for Innovation in Optometry

04:31 Best Practices for Organizational Development

06:22 The Boating Metaphor for Business Growth

11:47 Importance of Vision, Mission, and Core Values

14:09 Hiring and Team Building Strategies

35:58 Process Improvement and Clear Expectations

41:18 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Join the conversation as Steve Alexander sits down with Erich Mattei, President and Chief Vision Officer of aos, to explore what it really takes to launch a cold start optometric practice. From defining a clear mission, vision, and purpose to understanding your local market, Erich shares practical steps every new practice owner should know. Learn why avoiding shortcuts, choosing the right partners and tools, and staying proactive in business decisions are critical for success. Eric also highlights the role of community engagement and the need for solid financial planning to build a sustainable foundation. This episode offers essential insights for anyone looking to start and grow their own optometry practice.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:31 Erich Mattei's Journey into Eyecare

02:01 The Importance of Private Practice

03:41 Best Practices for a Cold Start Practice

08:53 Planning Phase: Constructing a Business Plan

11:31 Building Your Team for Success

15:16 Financial Considerations and Market Fit

32:34 Opening Day and Initial Steps

38:02 Final Thoughts and Recap

43:01 Conclusion and Contact Information